Colin St John Wilson was born in Cheltenham in 1922. In 1940 he went to Cambridge University (Corpus Christi College) to study architecture for a 2-year "War Degree" before joining the Royal Navy; painting and poetry were his main interests. In the Navy (1942-6) he became attached to an Air Arm Communication Squadron at the time of the invasion of Europe, and subsequently served in India until the end of the war.These experiences were a most important part of his education. He completed his studies at University College London (1946-9). > NEXT

Biography born in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.   1922   enrolled at the School of Architecture, Cambridge University.   1940   war service in Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve.   1942-46   graduated as an architect at University College London.   1949   contributed commissioned articles to the popular press in The Observer.   1950-53   worked in a Development Group of the housing Division of the architects department of London County Council.   1950-55   Organiser and participant in "This is Tomorrow" exhibition at the Whitechapel Gallery, London.   1956   worked in association with Sir Leslie Martin in Cambridge.   1956-64   Lecturer at the School of Architecture, Cambridge University.   1956-69   established an independent practice. Subsequently joined by partners John Collier, M. J. Long, Douglas Langham, Peter Carolin, and John Honer.   1964   moved his office to London (currently 27, Horsell Road, London N5).   1970   married Mary Jane Long.   1972   Head of School of Architecture, Cambridge University.   1975-89   wrote The Other Tradition of Modern Architecture.   1992   wrote The Design & Construction of The British Library.     wrote The Artist at Work.   1999   received knighthood.   1998